VillaruzGhorls-Reviewer.docx

The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic union of 27 European countries established to promote integration and cooperation among its members. The Treaty on European Union, commonly known as the Maastricht Treaty, was signed on February 7, 1992, in Maastricht, Netherlands, and beca...

The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic union of 27 European countries established to promote integration and cooperation among its members. The Treaty on European Union, commonly known as the Maastricht Treaty, was signed on February 7, 1992, in Maastricht, Netherlands, and became effective on November 1, 1993. It fostered greater cooperation among the 12 original member nations, promoting unified citizenship and encouraging economic and social progress. The treaty also laid the groundwork for the introduction of the euro currency. Since its signing, the treaty has been amended several times, and as of October 2021, 27 countries were part of the European Union. The primary **objectives** of the EU include: **1. Economic Growth and Stability:** Promoting economic growth, employment, and stability within the EU. **2. Regional Development:** Reducing disparities among regions and fostering cohesion. **3. Social Inclusion:** Enhancing social protection and inclusion for all citizens. **4. Environmental Protection:** Tackling climate change and protecting the environment. **5. Security and Safety:** Ensuring the security of EU citizens through effective policies and cooperation. **6. Global Influence:** Enhancing the EU\'s role on the global stage through diplomacy and trade agreements. **STRUCTURE** **European Council:** Comprising the heads of state or government of the member states, it sets the EU's overall political direction and priorities. **Council of the European Union (Council of Ministers):** Represents the governments of the member states, and is involved in legislating and coordinating policies. **European Commission:** Acts as the EU's executive body, proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and upholding the EU treaties. It is composed of Commissioners appointed by member states. **European Parliament:** Elected by EU citizens, it shares legislative powers with the Council and has a role in approving or rejecting legislation and overseeing other EU institutions. **Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU):** Ensures that EU law is interpreted and applied uniformly across member states and resolves legal disputes. **European Central Bank (ECB):** Manages the euro and formulates monetary policy for the Eurozone. **European Court of Auditors:** Oversees the EU's finances, ensuring that its budget is properly managed. **European External Action (EEAS):** Manages the EU's foreign affairs and diplomatic relations MEMBERS: - **Austria (joined 1995):** Sought economic benefits and political stability, and to strengthen ties with Western Europe post-Cold War. - **Belgium (founding member, 1958):** Joined to promote economic cooperation and integration in Europe, and to ensure peace and stability. - **Bulgaria (joined 2007):** Desired economic development, integration into European structures, and to enhance political stability and governance. - **Croatia (joined 2013):** Aimed to boost economic growth and political stability after the Yugoslav Wars. - **Cyprus (joined 2004):** Sought economic benefits and to improve relations with European neighbors. **Czech Republic (joined 2004):** Wanted economic development, political stability, and integration into European and global markets. - **Denmark (joined 1973):** Aimed for economic benefits and political stability, and to strengthen regional cooperation. - **Estonia (joined 2004):** Sought economic growth, political stability, and integration with Western Europe. - **Finland (joined 1995):** Desired economic benefits, enhanced security, and closer ties with Western Europe. - **France (founding member, 1958):** Joined to promote peace, economic cooperation, and to prevent future conflicts with Germany. - **Germany (founding member, 1958):** Sought to prevent future wars in Europe, promote economic cooperation, and ensure political stability. - **Greece (joined 1981):** Aimed for economic aid, political stability, and to strengthen its position in Europe. - **Hungary (joined 2004):** Desired economic development, political stability, and integration into European structures. - **Ireland (joined 1973):** Sought economic growth and development, and to strengthen ties with European neighbors. - **Italy (founding member, 1958):** Desired economic recovery, political stability, and to promote regional cooperation. - **Latvia (joined 2004):** Wanted economic growth, political stability, and integration into European and global markets. - **Lithuania (joined 2004):** Sought economic development, political stability, and integration with Western Europe. - **Luxembourg (founding member, 1958):** Aimed for economic benefits and to promote peace and stability in Europe. - **Malta (joined 2004):** Desired economic growth and stability, and to strengthen political and economic ties with Europe. - **Netherlands (founding member, 1958):** Sought economic cooperation, political stability, and peace in Europe. - **Poland (joined 2004):** Aimed for economic development, political stability, and integration into European structures. - **Portugal (joined 1986):** Desired economic aid, political stability, and integration into European markets. - **Romania (joined 2007):** Sought economic development, political stability, and to improve governance. - **Slovakia (joined 2004):** Wanted economic growth, political stability, and closer integration with Europe. - **Slovenia (joined 2004):** Aimed for economic development, political stability, and integration into European structures. - **Spain (joined 1986):** Sought economic development, political stability, and to modernize its economy and governance. - **Sweden (joined 1995):** Desired economic benefits, political stability, and to strengthen ties with European neighbors. United Kingdom - Economic Leader: As Europe\'s largest economy, Germany drives economic growth and stability in the EU. Its industrial base, particularly in automotive and manufacturing, plays a critical role in the European. Germany\'s strong economy drives the EU\'s economic engine, influencing trade and financial stability. - EU Policy Shaper: Germany influences EU policies and reforms due to its economic strength and political clout. It is a key player in shaping. economic, environmental, and security policies within the EU including policy-making and crisis management. - Historical Legacy: Germany\'s history, including its role in both World Wars and the subsequent reunification, has significantly shaped modern European geopolitics.. - Cultural and Diplomatic Leader : France contributes significantly to European culture through its history, arts, and language. It is also a major diplomatic player, influencing EU foreign policy and international relations. - Economic Powerhouse: France\'s economy is one of the largest in the EU, with substantial contributions to various sectors. including agriculture, aerospace, and luxury goods. It has a diversified economy with strengths in various. sectors, including aerospace, luxury goods, and agriculture. - Military: France has one of the strongest military. forces in Europe and is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, giving it substantial diplomatic leverage. UNITED KINGDOM - Financial Hub: Prior to Brexit, the UK was a key financial center for Europe, with London being a major global financial hub. Even post-Brexit, the UK\'s financial influence remains significant. London\'s financial services are pivotal to the European and global economies, impacting trade and investment. - Cultural Influence: The UK\'s cultural exports, including media, literature, and education, have a broad impact across Europe significantly to European culture, science, and education through institutions and media - Geopolitical Player: The UK\'s historical global perspective and its role in NATO and other international organizations shape European and global security policies. ITALY - Cultural Contributor: Italy\'s historical and cultural heritage, from Roman times to the Renaissance, greatly enriches European cultural identity and tourism. - Economic Participant: Italy plays a significant role in the European economy, particularly in fashion, design, and manufacturing. It has a robust economy, with significant industries in fashion, automotive, and design. Italy contributes to the EU economy through its industrial and agricultural sectors. - Mediterranean Influence: Italy\' s strategic location in the Mediterranean affects trade routes and regional politics, making it a key player in. Mediterranean affairs. SPAIN - Cultural Influence: Spain contributes significantly to European culture through its diverse traditions, art, and language. Spanish culture has a substantial impact across Europe and beyond. Spain\'s cultural contributions, including its language, art, and festivals, have a wide-reaching impact. - Economic and Tourist Attraction: Spain is a significant player in Europe and has a growing economy driven by tourism, agriculture, and industry with strengths in various sectors, including renewable energy. and agriculture. - Strategic Position: Spain\'s geographical location. provides strategic access to both the Atlantic and Mediterranean, impacting regional trade and security. BREXIT Reasons for Brexit - Sovereignty: Many voters felt that leaving the EU would restore British sovereignty and give the UK more control over its laws and borders. - Immigration Control: Concerns over immigration and the ability to control borders were significant factors in the decision to leave. - Economic Independence: Some believed that leaving the EU would allow the UK to negotiate its own trade agreements without EU constraints. - Regulation: There was a desire to reduce EU regulations, which some viewed as burdensome to businesses. Advantages of Brexit - Regained Sovereignty: The UK can make its own laws without needing EU approval. - Tailored Trade Agreements: The UK can negotiate trade deals that are specifically beneficial to its economy. - Immigration Policy Control: The government can set its own immigration rules, allowing for more targeted policies. - Reduced Contributions: The UK no longer contributes financially to the EU budget, which some view as a financial saving. Disadvantages of Brexit - Economic Uncertainty: The transition has caused uncertainty in markets, affecting investment and economic growth. - Trade Barriers: New tariffs and customs checks have created barriers to trade with the EU, which is a major trading partner. - Loss of Access to Single Market: The UK lost the benefits of the single market, which facilitated easier trade and movement of goods. - Potential Isolation: There are concerns about the UK\'s global standing and influence being diminished outside the EU. VATICAN CITY - Vatican City is considered a city within a city because it is an independent sovereign state located and entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy. - Swiss Guard: The Swiss Guard is the small force responsible for the security of the Pope and the Vatican. Swiss Guards were chosen for their loyalty, discipline, and combat skills but the truth is that yung wealth ng popeay naka deposit sa bank ng Switzerland. HOW TO ELECT A POPE 1\. Vacancy of the Papal Office : The papal election is triggered by the Sede Vacante (\"vacant seat\"), which occurs either due to the pope\'s death or resignation (like Pope Benedict XVI in 2013). During this period, all administrative duties of the Church are managed by the College of Cardinals, but major decisions are put on hold until a new pope is elected. 2 Preparations for the Conclave: After the Sede Vacante is declared, the cardinals are summoned to the Vatican. Cardinals from all over the world must arrive in Rome within 15 to 20 days. During this time, the cardinals gather in general congregations to discuss Church matters and prepare for the election. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, usually numbering around 120. 3\. Entering the Conclave: The election of the pope takes place in the conclave, which is held in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. The word conclave means \"with a key,\" signifying that the cardinals are locked inside until they elect a pope. Before entering, the cardinals take a vow of secrecy, ensuring that nothing discussed or done inside the conclave is revealed to the outside world. All forms of communication with the outside world are cut off to maintain focus and protect the sanctity of the process. 4\. Voting process: The election of the pope takes place in the conclave, which is held in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. The word conclave means \"with a key,\" signifying that the cardinals are locked inside until they elect a pope. Before entering, the cardinals take a vow of secrecy, ensuring that nothing discussed or done inside the conclave is revealed to the outside world. All forms of communication with the outside world are cut off to maintain focus and protect the sanctity of the process. 5\. Acceptance and Choosing a Name: Once a cardinal receives the two-thirds majority vote, the dean of the College of Cardinals approaches him and asks: \"Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?\" If the chosen cardinal accepts, he immediately becomes pope. 7\. Acceptance and Choosing a Name: The new pope is then asked to choose his papal name, a tradition that reflects the role he wishes to embody during his pontificate. 8\. Announcement of the New Pope: After the pope is elected, the senior cardinal deacon steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter\'s Basilica and announces to the world: \"Habemus Papam\" (\"We have a pope\"), followed by the name of the new pope. The new pope then appears on the balcony to greet the public and deliver his first apostolic blessing. 9.Papal Inauguration: In the days following the election, the new pope is formally inaugurated in a ceremony, where he assumes his duties as the head of the Catholic Church and the Bishop of Rome In Short: The pope is elected by the College of Cardinals during a conclave, which is convened after the death or resignation of a pope. The cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel and vote in secrecy. A candidate must receive a two-thirds majority to be elected. Once elected, the new pope is asked to accept the position, chooses a papal name, and is then announced to the public. - White smoke signifies the election of a new pope, while black smoke indicates that no decision has been reached. The signaling is a way to inform the public about the conclave\'s progress without needing to enter the Vatican.